[Elecraft] Difficulty with PSK

[Don Wilhelm]

Tom,

I did not mean to imply that you could not use an external interface box 
with the K3, but I did mean to state that it is not necessary since the 
K3 has the functions built in (except for the soundcard itself).  Yes, 
if you need the other functions of the MicrokeyerII, then by all means 
use it, it is a good choice.

The manual is clear provided one understands the meaning and 
implications of terms (or standard usage abbreviations) such as ASCII, 
FSK, AFSK, and other terms related to data mode operation.  There are 
many resources in book form and on the web that can be helpful if there 
is a question about the meanings and common usage - The ARRL Handbook 
contains a good glossary of Digital Communications Terminology in the 
chapter dealing with Modes and Modulation Sources.

As much as we would like to jump in and just "try things out", 
technology has advanced to a point where that is often just neither wise 
nor practical.  I believe we should have some understanding about what 
we are dealing with first.  I like to relate it to a conversation - if 
both parties to a conversation do not have an understanding of the 
terminology used, there just cannot be a good flow of information.

73,
Don W3FPR

tom wylie wrote:
> I believe the manual is a little ambiguous in the description of the 
> modes and assumes knowledge or familiarity with the products, which is a 
> problem for somebody who just wants to try things out.
>
> The MircokeyerII is a USB interface designed to go between the rig and 
> the computer carrying all the audio and switching.   It also has a built 
> in Winkey for CW so is indispensible.
>   
>